The Victoria man rushed to a Houston hospital after being attacked is showing signs of improvement.

Lupe Sandoval, 52, of Victoria, was flown by helicopter Thursday to Memorial Hermann Hospital in critical condition after suffering blows to his head and body.

Marlin "Pepper" Adams was arrested Thursday on suspicion of the assault and is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond.

The incident was caught on surveillance video, which shows the men exchanging words before the physical altercation, but Victoria Police Chief J.J. Craig said it's clear that Adams was the aggressor and that after walking away, he returned to continue to attack Sandoval, who was on the ground.

Sandoval is in guarded condition at the hospital, and his family said he's unable to breathe on his own. Doctors have placed him on heavy sedation to help him rest while trying to control the bleeding in his brain. However, he has shown response signs when prodded, family members said.

"We all know he is a strong man," said Rose Sandoval, Lupe Sandoval's sister, thanking the community for its support. The online messages and phone calls have reminded her how great Victoria is, she said.

"They are so sweet," she said. "I didn't know how many people out there cared about my family, and for them to take the time to share my posts and pray - thank you."